10 Quick and Easy Lentil Dinner Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re on the hunt for quick and easy dinner recipes featuring lentils, you’re in the right place! Lentils are not only nutritious but also super versatile, making them perfect for weeknight meals. From hearty soups to flavorful salads and satisfying stir-fries, there are plenty of tasty options that you can whip up in no time. Let’s get cooking!

Lentil Burgers with Avocado

These lentil burgers are a tasty and healthy option for dinner. They’re packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a hit with everyone. The creamy avocado adds a delightful richness that complements the savory lentils perfectly.

Making these burgers is simple and quick, making them perfect for busy evenings. You can customize them with your favorite toppings and serve them with a side of fresh veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped onions
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Whole grain buns
• Fresh vegetables (lettuce, tomato, cucumber)

Instructions

1. Mix the lentils, breadcrumbs, onions, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and egg in a bowl until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into patties and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the patties for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Assemble the burgers: place a lentil patty on a bun, top with avocado slices and your choice of fresh vegetables.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious lentil burgers!

Lentil Salad with Feta

Lentil salad with feta is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. Packed with protein and fiber, this salad is not only healthy but also deliciously satisfying. The tangy feta cheese complements the earthy lentils, while fresh veggies add a delightful crunch.

This recipe is simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish for gatherings. You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs and vegetables for a personalized touch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (parsley or basil), for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool.
2. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooled lentils, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh herbs and serve immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Lentil Stir-Fry with Vegetables

This Lentil Stir-Fry with Vegetables is a quick and nourishing dinner that’s packed with flavor. The earthy lentils pair wonderfully with crisp, colorful veggies, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also vibrant and inviting. It’s simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The combination of sautéed vegetables and seasoned lentils brings a delightful crunch and a burst of freshness. Plus, it’s versatile; you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Serve it over rice or enjoy it as is for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in the bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Add the cooked lentils and soy sauce to the skillet, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Remove from heat.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy!

Creamy Lentil Curry

Creamy lentil curry is a comforting dish packed with flavor and nutrients. This recipe combines tender lentils with aromatic spices and a rich coconut milk base, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a warm, hearty meal on the table in no time.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils (red or green)
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Cooked rice or naan, for serving

Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
3. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric, stirring for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and coconut milk. Add the lentils and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if the curry gets too thick.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm over rice or with naan, garnished with fresh cilantro.

One-Pot Lentil Pasta

This One-Pot Lentil Pasta is a delightful blend of hearty lentils and comforting pasta, making it a perfect dinner option for those busy weeknights. The flavors come together in a simple way, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

You can expect a rich taste with a hint of freshness, thanks to the herbs and spices. Best of all, it’s quick to make and requires minimal cleanup—ideal for anyone looking for an effortless meal that still hits the spot.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta. Reduce heat and simmer until the pasta and lentils are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil.

Spiced Lentil Soup

Spiced Lentil Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It features a delightful blend of lentils, vegetables, and spices, creating a hearty meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. This soup is not just tasty, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

The combination of spices adds depth to the flavor, while the lentils provide a rich source of protein and fiber. Serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread for a delightful dinner that your family will love. It’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
2. Add the carrot, celery, and bell pepper, sautéing for a few more minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Stir in the lentils, cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika, mixing well.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
5. Cover and let cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally, adding more broth if needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Lentil and Vegetable Casserole

This lentil and vegetable casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Combining lentils with a vibrant mix of vegetables, it creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

The taste is a delightful blend of earthy lentils and fresh, savory vegetables, making each bite a joy. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your dinner routine without much effort.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large oven-safe pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
3. Add the bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Transfer the pot to the oven and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Savory Lentil Tacos

These savory lentil tacos are a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with protein from lentils and fresh veggies, they’re both satisfying and nutritious. The rich spices elevate the taste, making every bite delicious and fulfilling.

Best of all, they’re incredibly simple to make, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Just cook the lentils, mix in your favorite spices, and load them into soft tortillas with fresh toppings. It’s an easy recipe that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry green or brown lentils
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas for serving
• Fresh toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado slices, cilantro

Instructions

1. Cook the Lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water. In a pot, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender. Drain excess liquid if necessary.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Combine and Season: Add the cooked lentils to the skillet with onions and garlic. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes to let flavors meld.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet. Fill each tortilla with the lentil mixture and top with diced tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Mediterranean Lentil Bowl

The Mediterranean Lentil Bowl is a delightful and healthy option for a quick dinner. Bursting with flavors from vibrant vegetables and savory spices, this dish is both filling and nutritious. With its combination of tender lentils, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing, it offers a refreshing taste that will satisfy anyone’s palate.

Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make! Just toss together your ingredients, and you have a meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. This bowl is a great way to enjoy the rich flavors of the Mediterranean without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, diced bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
5. Enjoy your Mediterranean Lentil Bowl warm or chilled!

Lentil Quesadillas

Lentil quesadillas are a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal. These tasty treats are packed with protein and flavor, making them a perfect choice for a quick dinner.

With crispy tortillas filled with spiced lentils and veggies, they deliver a delightful crunch and a burst of taste in every bite. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them an ideal option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1/2 cup onions, diced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tortillas
• 1 cup cheese, shredded
• Oil for cooking
• Optional toppings: salsa, guacamole, sour cream

Instructions

1. In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened.
2. Stir in the cooked lentils, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with cheese, then add the lentil mixture on top. Fold the tortilla in half.
4. Cook for a few minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
5. Slice and serve with your choice of toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.